Obituary of Robert M. Wainwright

Wainwright, Robert M. “Bob”

Saginaw, Michigan

Robert Michael Wainwright passed away peacefully Thursday, December 19, 2024 surrounded by family. Robert was born on November 7, 1949 in Midland, Michigan to the late John Norbert and Ellen Elizabeth (Feavyear) Wainwright. Bob graduated from Arthur Hill High School in 1967, attended Delta College, and earned a Bachelor’s degree in English/History from Michigan State University in 1973. Bob’s career began as an English teacher. He spent time substitute teaching and became involved with adult education at the nonprofit organization Tri-City SER where he rose into administrative roles including director. He ultimately worked for the Saginaw Public Schools where he retired as a program director at Ruben Daniels.  

With a special ability to connect with others and an innate spirit to root for the underdog, Bob Wainwright was one of the good guys. He played classical guitar, tennis and golf, loved a good brew and conversation over wine. Cultured and well-educated, he spoke passionately about nature, science, and history. Bob will be remembered as a great storyteller whose nearly poetic tales demonstrated wit, humility, and a boundless sense of humor.

An experienced traveler throughout his lifetime, his odysseys included hitchhiking to Haight-Ashbury in California and backpacking across Europe in his youth to camping in Yellowstone and Old Orchard, whale watching in Alaska, whitewater rafting in West Virginia, and visiting Nova Scotia, Ireland, London, Paris, and more. He traveled with friends, family members, his children, and, of course, with Kathy…his partner in every adventure, always. 

He was a man who lived and loved well and cherished his family. Bob married the love of his life, Kathy, on August 24, 1990. His first wife, Carol, has remained a close family friend for more than 55 years. He was a father who was loved deeply, a grandfather known as Papa G-Bob, an uncle with great fishing stories, and a beloved brother, one of six siblings: The Wainwright Family. 

Robert is survived by his wife, Kathy Kickham, and children: Jen (James) Wainwright O’Deay and Sean Wainwright; grandchildren Mackenzie (Tom), A.J. (Breanne), Henna, Seamus, and Hope; siblings John (Christie) Wainwright, Tom (Margaret) Wainwright, Pete Wainwright, and Ellen Wainwright; many cousins, nieces, nephews, great grandchildren, extended family, and dear friends. 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Betsy (Ron) Dice. 

MEMORIAL SERVICE: A memorial service for Bob will be held in the spring of 2025 at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. Saginaw, MI 48603.

MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to a charity of your choice. The family invites and welcomes all to please share your thoughts, memories and stories, lessons learned, and laughter shared with Bob by visiting the Tribute Wall.